Probate

The death of a relative is an extremely difficult time for a family. Coping with such a loss is difficult enough without the administrative burden of informing interested parties and dealing with the deceased’s estate.

If a close relative has died and if they left assets in their own name of more than £5000, you may need to obtain a Grant of Probate (if they left a will) or a grant of Letters of Administration (if they died without a Will). Without a Grant, you won’t be able to deal with their estate.

What is probate?

When someone dies the term ‘Probate’ refers to the legal process whereby the deceased’s assets are collected together and following various legal and financial steps, are distributed to the beneficiaries of the estate.

What can we do to help?

In our initial free consultation, we will discuss with you what services are appropriate to your circumstances. For example, it is not always a Grant of Probate that is needed.

Following this consultation, we can offer you a fixed fee price for dealing with the estate. This removes the risk of unexpected and additional costs.

If you would like to talk to someone about Probate, please contact Karen on 01623 460444

We can offer two Probate service options

Grant of Probate only

We will apply for the Grant of Probate (or Letters of Administration if there is no Will).

We will need details of the estate, a copy of the Will (if there is one) and the Death Certificate. We will complete the Inheritance Tax forms for you. You will then take on the responsibility for the estate administration yourself.

Full administration of the estate

You may wish to hand over the full responsibility for administration the estate. This can include:

Arranging the funeral and registering the death

Helping to locate and understand the Will (where one exists)

Tracing beneficiaries

Resolving disputes

Valuing the estate

Obtaining the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration

Collecting the funds and paying off debts

Liaising with the Benefits Agency with regard to overpayments

Liaising with the Inland Revenue with regard to the income and capital gains tax for the deceased

Handling any inheritance tax issues

Setting up Trust funds

Transferring interests in property

Distributing the estate

Drafting final estate accounts

We can also deal with the property of the estate, which includes

Arranging the payment of utility bills and council tax until the property has been sold

Selling the property

Redeeming the mortgage (where applicable)

Renting the property

Conveyancing fees are not usually included, however, Alcocks can provide Conveyancing assistance, and a full quote will be provided to you at the appropriate time.

If you would like to talk to someone about your personal affairs, please contact Karen Gundel on 01623 460444.